MIAMI, FL, May 22, 2012– Ecoventura’s (ecoventura.com) environmentally friendly fleet of small expedition vessels in the Galapagos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reports that its family business is booming, in part because Brad Pit and Angelina Jolie brought their brood here recently and also because the company has a 15-year track record of embracing children on all of its year-round departures and offers some families-only pre-set departures.
“Our surveys show that parents want to give their children authentic experiences over hedonistic escapes,” said Ecoventura spokeswoman Doris Welsh. “We help them do this by providing accommodations on 20-passenger, environmentally certified motor yachts and then adding to the mix eco-sensitive programs led by top naturalist guides.” (NOTE: please see quotes from family travelers at the end of this release.)
Welsh said that in particular its family departures for teenagers, which began in 2003, have withstood the recession.
“It seems families with teenagers realized they do not have the option to put off traveling with their teens for a year or more until the economy recovers, because then the kids will be either in college or stuck in a job, essentially off on their own,” she said.
It also helps that at least one of its yachts (Eric, Flamingo or Letty) is designated exclusively for families on every school break. After 15 years the family business accounts for close to 30 percent of the company’s overall bookings. On family teen departures guides (one guide per 10 passengers) offer longer, more challenging guided walks on the trails and take advantage of every opportunity to snorkel from the beach and also in deeper water.
“We are the only boat owner/operator in Galapagos to offer designated departure dates exclusively for families traveling with teens and to give a discount of 15 percent for children age 12 to 17. Several companies in Galapagos do offer family departures; however these are often geared more toward younger children and they offer limited departure dates of three to four weeks the entire year and offer discounts to children only up to age 11,” Welsh noted.
From now through winter 2012, Welsh reports that family teen departures are still available. Seven-night/eight-day cruise rates start at $3,550 per person double occupancy with 15 percent discount for children age 12-17 and a 25 percent discount for ages 5 to 11.
About Ecoventura: Ecoventura is a family-owned company based in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with sales offices in Quito and Miami. 
In operation since 1990, the cruise company transports 4,000+ passengers annually aboard its fleet of three expedition vessels; Eric, Flamingo and Letty, identical, superior first-class 20-passenger motor yachts. The company also operates the M/V Galapagos Sky, a 16-passenger dedicated dive live-aboard offering 7-night weekly itineraries visiting the northern islands of Wolf and Darwin.
To reserve a cabin or private charter, or to receive a copy of Ecoventura’s 2012 catalog please call toll-free 1.800.633.7972, or e-mail info@galapagosnetwork.com. To access current rates, schedules and itineraries log on to ecoventura.com/.
Ecoventura Contact: Doris Welsh / E: doris@galapagosnetwork.com / Ph: 800.633.7972
Addendum: Quotes from families who have traveled recently with Ecoventura
Guest Julia Simpson: “The naturalists, Alexis and Pepe, were amazing. The Flamingo had a wide range of passengers, from a 7 1/2 year old to a 65 year old, and yet they were able to explain things in a way that was interesting for everyone. Their knowledge and interaction was fun and kept the group interested. They were kind to everyone and made sure that each passenger had an amazing experience.”
Guest Patricia Perkins: “The trip was FABULOUS and far exceeded our expectations at every level! The Letty was so comfortable and inviting that we didn’t want to return to land. We were really pleased and impressed with how you managed to get us on a boat where every family was traveling with teens. Our sixteen year old LOVED having so many other kids her age on board. They played cards to the wee hours while Jorge provided them with drinks and snacks.”
Guest Robin Mayes: “They were able to explain everything from biology and geology to human history and conservation efforts. My whole family has never had so much fun while learning so much. We are all absolutely recommending Ecoventura to our friends!”
Guest Arnold Miller: “Ivan and Jaime were sensational. They really are Galapagos naturalists rather than guides. Their knowledge of the islands and its fauna and flora was outstanding. Their patience and ability to get along with everyone was remarkable. They gave you the feeling that they were seeing things for the very first time—even though they obviously had led many trips. Ivan particularly had a personality and sense of humor that is rare and refreshing. This aspect alone was worth the price of admission!”